DIATOMACEOUS EARTH – PEST CONTROL PROS AND CONS

There has been a lot of discussion about diatomaceous earth as a pest control agent in Las Vegas. While it is a natural solution for those looking to avoid chemical pesticides, it does have a downside. The bugs have to come into direct and prolonged contact with the material for it to have an effect, so you have to spread it pretty extensively throughout the home. To be effective, the powder has to stay bone dry, so it isn’t the most effective method for a watered yard.

There are two huge advantages to using the inorganic dusts like silica gel and diatomaceous earth – extremely low hazard to people and pets and many years of residual effectiveness. As long as they are applied to a dry surface the dust particles remain available to the bugs that touch that surface at some point in time. .   Also it should only be used in areas that are not accessible - for instance in-between a wall void or some other surface that a pet or a small child cannot get into – it can damage their lungs. It is not advised to use on rugs or flooring that you would vacuum.

There is NO such thing as a non-toxic insecticide. If any chemical that is used were non-toxic then it would not be able to kill any bugs. The EPA demands that labeled products used to manage pests are pesticides and these are defined by EPA as “any substances or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest.”

There are safety concerns when applying diatomaceous earth – you must wear a dust mask as it can irritate the mucous membranes in the nose and mouth. The dust of diatomaceous earth can get airborne if you use fans.

Make sure you consult a pest control professional prior to making applications yourself or utilizing material that you purchased and intend to apply for home use.   A lot of materials can be dangerous if not applied correctly.   This is one good reason to have a professional perform your services.  A pest professional has the knowledge and knowhow to apply materials safely and in the areas that will be best to solve your pest problems.

GLOBAL PEST SERVICES in Las Vegas is a licensed pest control company that is qualified to handle all your pest elimination needs. Call our office at 702-657-0091 or go to our web site- to speak with us for all your pest control needs. Get a quote now!

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